The 19th annual Golden Heart Awards, hosted by God's Love We Deliver, captivated over 800 attendees with its powerful blend of world-class performances, inspiring speeches, and remarkable fundraising success. Guests frequently rose to their feet to acknowledge the profound impact of the organization and the generous contributions made throughout the evening. This palpable energy translated into a staggering achievement, with over $4 million successfully raised to support the charity's vital mission.
Highlighting the evening's significant achievements, the event showcased the immense dedication of God's Love We Deliver, an organization committed to providing medically-tailored meals. Fundraising expert Harry Santa-Olalla expertly guided the paddle-raising, illustrating the extensive good that the organization's 20,000 volunteers can accomplish with every donation. From its humble origins in a church basement, God's Love We Deliver is on track to deliver four million meals this year, building on the impressive 40 million meals distributed over its 40-year history. Honoree Audra McDonald eloquently captured the essence of their work, stating, \"God's Love reminds us that compassion is not passive. It's not pity—it's a daily practice.\" Michael Kors, a staunch supporter of the charity, praised McDonald as she accepted the award for Outstanding Philanthropy, Artistry, and Activism, commending her exceptional talent and even larger heart, which she consistently uses for the greater good.
The star-studded gathering, including luminaries like Zoey Deutch, Rosie Perez, and James Corden, enjoyed an evening of fine dining and a captivating performance by the cast of \"Saturday Church.\" Terrence Meck, CEO and president, proudly announced the opening of a new distribution center in Brooklyn, recognizing a founding volunteer and a young cancer survivor, Mohit, who now participates in the Youth Leadership Council. Anne Hathaway, receiving the award for Outstanding Philanthropy and Volunteerism, shared her personal connection to the charity, recalling how an early encounter, inspired by Meryl Streep, introduced her to the \"seismic goodness\" of God's Love We Deliver.
This event serves as a powerful reminder that collective effort and unwavering compassion can transform lives. The commitment of individuals like Anne Hathaway, Audra McDonald, and Michael Kors, combined with the tireless work of countless volunteers, creates a ripple effect of kindness, illustrating the profound impact of selflessness and community engagement in addressing critical needs and fostering a more empathetic world.